Barbecue chicken is a classic crowd-pleaser, but who has time for hours of grilling, especially on a busy weeknight? This recipe shows you how to achieve tender, flavorful barbecue chicken in a skillet, delivering restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow guide!
Why Choose Skillet Barbecue Chicken?
Forget the grill! Skillet barbecue chicken offers several advantages:
- Convenience: No need for charcoal, propane, or outdoor space. It's perfect for apartment dwellers or anyone who wants a quick and easy meal.
- Versatility: You can easily adjust the spices and sauce to your preference, creating your signature barbecue flavor.
- Consistent Cooking: A skillet provides even heat distribution, ensuring your chicken cooks thoroughly and evenly without any dry or burnt spots.
- Easy Cleanup: One pan means less washing up afterward!
What You'll Need:
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup your favorite barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Optional: Chopped green onions for garnish
Equipment:
- Large oven-safe skillet (cast iron is ideal, but any heavy-bottomed skillet will do)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and onion powder.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in the skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Brown the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides. This takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Simmer in Barbecue Sauce: Pour in the barbecue sauce and brown sugar (if using). Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Serve & Enjoy: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, potato salad, or corn on the cob.
How Long Does Skillet Barbecue Chicken Take to Cook?
The cooking time for skillet barbecue chicken depends on the thickness of the chicken pieces and the heat of your stove. Generally, it takes about 20-25 minutes from start to finish, including the time to brown the chicken and simmer in the sauce.
Can I Use Bone-in Chicken?
Yes, you can absolutely use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks for this recipe. Just keep in mind that bone-in chicken will require a longer cooking time – about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
What Kind of Barbecue Sauce Should I Use?
You can use any type of barbecue sauce you prefer – sweet, spicy, smoky, or tangy. Experiment with different brands and flavors to find your favorite! Homemade barbecue sauce adds a personal touch and allows you to control the ingredients and sweetness.
Can I Make this Recipe in the Slow Cooker?
While this recipe is specifically designed for a skillet, you can adapt it for a slow cooker. Brown the chicken as directed in step 3, then transfer it to the slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients, cover, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Tips for Extra Flavor:
- Marinate the chicken in your favorite barbecue sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking for extra flavor penetration.
- Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or liquid smoke to the sauce for a deeper, smokier taste.
- Serve the chicken over rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite pasta for a complete meal.
This skillet barbecue chicken recipe is a guaranteed weeknight winner. Its simplicity, versatility, and deliciousness make it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy!
